Getting Started with Your Trezor Hardware Wallet

Welcome to your comprehensive guide for setting up your Trezor hardware wallet. Whether you're new to cryptocurrency or an experienced user, properly setting up your Trezor device is crucial for securing your digital assets. This guide will walk you through the entire process from unboxing to making your first transaction.

1 Unbox and Verify Authenticity

When you receive your Trezor device, carefully unbox it and check for any signs of tampering. Your package should include:

  • Trezor hardware wallet
  • USB cable
  • Recovery seed cards
  • Lanyard and stickers
  • Instruction manual

Verify the holographic seal on the device is intact. If it appears tampered with, do not use the device and contact Trezor support immediately.

2 Connect to Trezor Suite

Visit Trezor.io/Start in your web browser and download Trezor Suite, the official desktop application for managing your Trezor device. Avoid using third-party applications for initial setup.

  1. Connect your Trezor device to your computer using the provided USB cable
  2. Install and open Trezor Suite
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest firmware

Tip: Always ensure you're using the official Trezor website and Suite application to avoid phishing attempts.

3 Create a New Wallet

After firmware installation, you'll be prompted to create a new wallet. Select "Create new wallet" and choose between:

  • Standard wallet: Recommended for most users
  • Hidden wallet: For advanced users who want additional privacy through passphrase protection

4 Backup Your Recovery Seed

This is the most critical step in securing your cryptocurrency. Your recovery seed is a list of 12, 18, or 24 words that can restore access to your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

  1. Your Trezor will display the words one by one on its screen
  2. Write each word in exact order on the provided recovery seed cards
  3. Never digitize your seed (no photos, cloud storage, or text files)
  4. Store in multiple secure locations, safe from fire and water damage

Warning: Anyone with access to your recovery seed can steal all your cryptocurrency. Never share these words with anyone, and beware of phishing attempts asking for your seed.

5 Set a PIN

Protect your device with a PIN code that will be required every time you connect your Trezor:

  • Choose a PIN with at least 4 digits (longer is more secure)
  • The PIN entry is randomized on your Trezor screen to prevent keyloggers
  • Confirm your PIN by entering it a second time

Using Your Trezor Wallet

Once setup is complete, you can start using your Trezor to manage your cryptocurrencies:

Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive funds:

  1. Connect your Trezor and open Trezor Suite
  2. Select the cryptocurrency you want to receive
  3. Click "Receive" to generate a receiving address
  4. Verify the address on your Trezor device screen matches what's shown in Suite
  5. Share this address with the sender

Sending Cryptocurrency

To send funds:

  1. Connect your Trezor and open Trezor Suite
  2. Select the cryptocurrency you want to send
  3. Click "Send" and enter the recipient's address
  4. Enter the amount and transaction fee
  5. Verify all transaction details on your Trezor screen before confirming

Security Best Practice: Always verify receiving and sending addresses directly on your Trezor device screen, not just in the software interface. This protects against malware that might alter addresses.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems during setup:

  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable or port, and ensure you have the latest Trezor Bridge installed
  • Firmware update fails: Check your internet connection and try again. If problems persist, contact Trezor support
  • Forgotten PIN: You can wipe the device and restore using your recovery seed (this will erase all data)
  • Lost recovery seed: If you lose your seed and forget your PIN, your funds will be permanently inaccessible